Blog - SignAble Vi5ion

How Customized Training and Resources Can Improve Your Team\’s Communication

Hi there, I\’m Leah Riddell and I specialize in providing customized training and resources to help businesses and organizations improve their inclusive communication practices in the workplace. In this blog post, I\’ll share my insights on the importance of inclusive communication, the challenges Deaf employees and those who communicate differently face, and how I can provide training and resources to help your team build character and better communicate with one another.

May 7, 2023

Trail Etiquette

Spring is here but it sure felt like summer over the weekend. I want to talk about trail walks, how it is important to be courteous and mindful of others around you. As a Deaf person who enjoys walking on trails with my dog (my family comes sometimes). I understand the importance of being mindful and considerate of others around me. Since I cannot hear bike bells or verbal cues, I’m always extra vigilant and aware of my surroundings.

One thing I do to ensure that my dog is on a leash and I stay on the right side of the trail is to use a keyword. We trained my dog to respond to the word “clear,” which means that we need to move over to the side more and let someone pass. This has been a useful tool in ensuring that we don’t get in anyone’s way, a bike rider or runner in our path from behind or in front of us and can easily communicate our intentions.

Being Deaf on the trail can present some unique challenges…

April 16, 2023

Priortize Deaf ASL Performers for the National Anthem

I express my concern and disappointment to the woman who perform the national anthem recently using ASL at a sporting event in the US. She has not been vetted or even have proper certification or training, which is disrespectful to the deaf and signing community.

Culture appropriation is a serious issue that can cause harm and offense to marginalize communities.

April 11, 2023

Meat and Bread

I want to talk about after the conference when my husband and I explored Vancouver downtown. We decided to have lunch, discovered a unique simple business name display and was intrigued by their menu. Meat & Bread on Robson street. We were looking forward to a sandwich which sold out with the people before us. A nice man named Colin appeared and started signing to the best of his ability. Explaining what was available.

March 15, 2023

Taboo No More

People around the world are seeing a new generation of Deaf people achieve what is achievable, there are endless online platitudes splashed across social media, recognizing amazing Deaf people who are performers, writers, business owners, and more.

It has long been taboo to talk about the possibilities of and by Deaf people, some of that do linger today.

It\’s world hearing day.

March 2, 2023

Translating Music in Sign Language

Have you been following all the news on Justina Miles? Everyone is stunned by her performance as I am to Rihanna\’s songs. The first Black female SuperBowl halftime ASL performer did amazing and garnered lots of media attention that she deserves.

Like all languages, American Sign Language (ASL) is a means of communication but also a means of art expression. Music is inclusive and it is meant for everyone to enjoy. Yes, we do enjoy music! There is absolutely no reason to deprive Deaf people from experiencing a good time. We are always pushing for access. Three different roles play this out to give us, the Deaf community, an experience.

Read more about the differences of ASL interpreter, ASL performer and ASL artists.

February 19, 2023

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